Free mouth cancer exams available to public in dental surgeries

Free mouth cancer examinations will be available to members of the public at over 500 participating dental surgeries countrywide today as part of Mouth Cancer Awareness Day (MCAD)

People can find a list of participating dentists in their area by logging on to www.mouthcancerawareness.ie . The MCAD campaign was initially launched to raise awareness and detection of the type of cancer that kills more Irish people than skin melanoma.

Approximately three hundred cases of mouth and pharynx cancer are detected in Ireland each year.

Dr Gillian Smith from the Irish Dental Association said the signs and symptoms of mouth cancer day include a sore or ulcer in the mouth that does not heal within three weeks.

“Other signs are white or red patches inside the mouth, a lump in the mouth or neck or a persistent sore throat or hoarseness. The cause of mouth cancer is not fully known but your risk is greater if you smoke or consume excess alcohol, especially spirits.”

Dr Smith urged members of the public, especially those who may not have visited a dentist in a while to avail of an oral examination.

“It’s free and only takes five minutes. Early diagnosis of this disease greatly enhances the chances of successful treatment” she said.

Anyone who has concerns about mouth cancer can speak with a specialist nurse in confidence by calling the National Cancer Helpline on Freephone 1800 200 700.